1. DEMONSTRATE UNDERSTANDING AND KNOWLEDGE ABOUT THE COMPLEXITIES OF STORYTELLING, DIRECTING AND DRAMATURGY WORLDWIDE
2. UNDERTAKE INDEPENDENT RESEARCH TO MAKE EFFECTIVE USE OF A VARIETY OF APPROPRIATE LEARNING RESOURCES FOR STUDYING DIVERSE TEXTS
3. DRAW ON RELEVANT THEORIES AND SCHOLARSHIP TO ANALYSE AND COMMENT UPON DIFFERENT MODES OF STORYTELLING, DIRECTING AND DRAMATURGY AROUND THE GLOBE
4. COMMUNICATE CLEARLY AND EFFECTIVELY IDEAS AND CONCLUSIONS PERTAINING TO STORYTELLING, DIRECTING AND DRAMATURGY WORLDWIDE

1: Negotiated Project [LO 1,2,3,4]
The individually marked essay (or practical narrated demonstration equivalent) will explore a selected element of Storytelling, Directing and Dramaturgy on a global scale. It will reflect on a case study and relate it to existing theories and practices. You will be able to negotiate your own form if required such as a video essay, blog/vlog.

2: Reflexive Evaluation [LO 3,4]
The individually marked Reflexive Evaluation (form negotiated) will contextualise your learning in relation to Storytelling, Directing and Dramaturgy worldwide as an assessment in Semester 1. It will also be an early assessment point, designed to give you feedback to apply in your next set of assignments.

Storytelling, Directing and Dramaturgy focuses on exploring global trends in contemporary storytelling practices through storytelling (through multiple forms), directing and dramaturgy. The module is wide enough to accommodate a multitude of contemporary practices, points of view and contexts from across the world. To what extent do the practices of storytelling depend on local cultural traditions? What determines successful directing and dramaturgy on the international stage?

This module explores a wide range of practices driving storytelling, directing and dramaturgy around the globe, with special attention paid to the diversification and decolonial approach, starting with the oral tradition. It invites a critical exploration of global practices and dissemination contexts for storytelling (including directing and dramaturgy) as well as practical explorations. Through your independent research and investigations, you will be encouraged to map specific case studies of storytelling practices across the globe. You will look at practices, genres, movements and practitioners, as well as contexts of dissemination and themes and formal conventions in different regions. You are encouraged to reflect on the wider contexts of production and global north/south differences. Finally, you will explore the potential of further developments in the storytelling traditions, its interdisciplinary (and post-disciplinary) nature, and the perspectives for the future (as determined by technological and other developments) for theatre, film and creative writing.

Running through this module will be sessions on academic study skills, preparing you for research and other critical skills needed for this degree scheme.

Do you want to explore global trends in Storytelling, Directing and Dramaturgy from across the world? This module provides a thorough introduction into global traditions and trends around various storytelling practices. With the help of an expert supervisor, you’ll investigate a case study of your choice, deepening your understanding of global tendencies in directing and dramaturgy.

This module is delivered in a mixed-mode approach using a combination of talks, seminars, and practical workshops. Sessions will explore different aspects and modes of worldwide storytelling, while workshops offer the opportunities to discuss specific case studies and global tendencies. Additionally, you are required to engage in independent learning activities that includes conducting relevant research, wider-reading, and viewings.

Adebeyo, M Ed (2023) Beyond the Canon’s Plays for Young Activists. Bloomsbury
Cancel, R (2013). Storytelling in Northern Zambia. Open Book Publishers
Innes, C. (2013). The Cambridge Companion to Theatre Directing. Cambridge University Press.
Leeming, D (ed.) (1997). Storytelling Encyclopedia. London: Greenwood
Meckler, N. (2023). Notes from the Rehearsal Room. Bloomsbury.
Nanson, A. (2021). Storytelling and Ecology. Bloomsbury.
Pullman, P. (2020). Daemon Voices: On Stories and Storytelling. London: David Fickling Books
Romanska, M (ed.) (2015). The Routledge Companion to Dramaturgy. Routledge.
Turner, C. (2016). Dramaturgy and Performance. London: Red Globe Press
Yorke, J. (2013). Into the Woods. Penguin

Library facilities
VLE
Drama Studios
Technical equipment – Media Centre